Wembley Stadium in London appeared visibly empty during the Springboks vs Japan game over the weekend, much to the disappointment of local rugby fans. This, despite calls for South Africans living in the UK to support the national rugby team.
The boys in green and gold beat the Brave Blossoms 61-7 at the 90 000 seater venue.
WEMBLEY STADIUM EMPTY AS SPRINGBOKS BEAT JAPAN
Despite the UK having the largest population of South African expats, only a small number appeared to have attended the Springboks vs Japan match at Wembley.
In images and clips posted online, the 90 000 appeared visibly empty, with large sections of the venue unoccupied.
@wembleystadium Come say hello next time 👋🏟️😅 #admin #admins #springboks #japanrugby #wembleystadium ♬ Ok I Like It – Milky Chance
@cpt_photobender #Springboks vs #Japan #wembleystadium #fyp @SA Rugby Mag @SARugby @sarugby @Bokke2025 ♬ Legends Are Made – Sam Tinnesz
@tianh_20 🇿🇦 V 🇯🇵 – Wembley Stadium. #ForYou #SpringBoks ♬ original sound – Tian🇿🇦
On X, Springboks fans were disappointed by the scenes, with some blaming a conflict in match scheduling as well as the logistics behind filling a big venue.
HOW MANY SOUTH AFRICANS LIVE IN THE UK?
According to the latest UK census, around 220 000 South African expats live in the UK.
BusinessTech states that many move to the country due to cultural ties, language familiarity, and the presence of established communities.
Images via: Twitter: @djstebo051/ @tashmontlake
Immigrants in the UK are often skilled in various sectors, including healthcare, IT, engineering and construction, education, and financial services.
SPRINGBOKS END OF THE YEAR TOUR: WHERE TO NEXT?
Meanwhile, the Springboks’ end-of-year tour continues, with four back-to-back games.
The boys in green and gold will play the following countries…
- 8 November: South Africa vs France, Paris (Stade de France)
- 15 November: South Africa vs Italy, Turin (Allianz Stadium)
- 22 November: South Africa vs Ireland, Dublin (Aviva Stadium)
- 29 November: South Africa vs Wales, Cardiff (Principality Stadium)
